2007.10.24 David Blesing

Regarding the letter to the editor from factory dairy operator, Karel van de Kolk, published Oct. 10, 2007:

Mr. van de Kolk makes the statement that “we are committed to protecting the environment.” If this is true, it raises many questions that need to be answered. Who ordered the trench to be dug back in 2006 that allowed the contaminants from your production area to enter the natural wetlands in the woods behind the dairy? Why did it take almost a year to correct this problem? Is the contaminated water the reason all the trees behind your factory appear to be dead and dying? Do your contaminated waters recognize the neighbor’s property line that divides the wetland in the woods? What guarantees are there that environmental desecration such as this will not occur in the future? So many questions, no answers!

Yes, the well tests have been completed, but you failed to mention that the already depleted aquifer continued to be depleted during the testing. I was informed by one neighbor that you had expressed serious concern over this matter. I pray that you continue to do so. I guess the jury’s still out on this one, isn’t it?

Probably the most important question most folks have is should almost 700,000 gallons of manure have been transported from factories in Michigan to your factory in Ohio in the first place? If any reader would like a copy of the enforcement letter from the O.D.A. to Vreba-Hoff Dairy and Chesterfield Dairy regarding this, you may call me at 419/452-7438 and I will see that you are mailed one. I am afraid that this will not answer questions but only raise more.